Air monitors have been set up around Waltham Forest in an attempt to discover the extent of pollution in the borough.

Funding was recently won from University College London (UCL) by both Walthamstow resident Charlotte Schilcher and the head of physics at George Monoux College, Ernestas Jegorovas. 

The duo spotted a post online from Clean Air UK, asking people to apply to find out the levels of nitrogen dioxide in their area of London.

Company Mapping for Change has given the duo 44 diffuser tubes which have been placed around the borough today,

The tiny monitors have been put up at various locations including Wood Street, Forest Road, Hoe Street and Bakers Arms.

In four weeks, results will be ready.

Ms Schilcher of Forest Road, said: “When we have the results it is down to us to take action. We have to go to the council and say something must be done.

“Walthamstow is one of the worst areas for air pollution yet there are no monitors up.

“We need to know the levels of pollution and if we are sucking up muck every day.

“There are things that can be done, we must make sure they are going to be done.”

The duo has started a Facebook group called Walthamstow Cares where they will share findings and discuss air pollution.